Chiefs coach reveals why new players missed season opener

Kaizer Chiefs fans were left wondering why some of the team’s new signings were missing from their season-opening 2-0 victory against Stellenbosch FC in the Betway Premiership. Now, the club’s assistant coach, Khalil Ben Youssef, has provided an explanation.

Ben Youssef, who was in charge of the team while head coach Nasreddine Nabi was away on a family emergency, confirmed that several new players—including Flavio Silva, Ethan Chislett, and Nkanyiso Shinga—were unavailable because they are still waiting for their work permits.

“When the new players join us, it will be better,” Ben Youssef said, “They will give us more solutions. We are waiting for their work permits, but we continue to work.”

He acknowledged that preparing for matches without these new additions is challenging, but emphasised that the coaching staff’s job is to adapt to any situation. He mentioned that the team has to be ready for various scenarios, including last-minute injuries.

“We prepare all of the team so that any player can start the game,” he stated. “We prepare for all situations. If they are available to play, we are lucky. If they are not available, it’s our job to prepare the next play.”

With the win now behind them, the focus shifts to their next match. The Chiefs will host Polokwane City in their first home game on Wednesday.